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Why Does My Chest Hurt?

Coronary Artery Disease and the Consequences of Environmental Exposure to PFAS

By John B. Chiari, Jillian Giblin, Courtney L. McGinnis

Why Does My Chest Hurt?


 

Abstract

This interrupted case study tells the story of “William,” an immigrant from the Faroe Islands to Cape Cod, MA, who has recently experienced an acute myocardial infarction (MI).  With the help of his healthcare team, William learns about his chronic exposure to a relatively new class of chemicals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the impact these chemicals have had on his health, and how to mitigate his future exposures. Students work collaboratively in small groups to find solutions to questions that are progressively disclosed with additional information as the case develops. Students also engage in problem-based learning as they develop their own questions to ask William in order to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The case was developed for first- or second-year medical students with a background in the cardiovascular system and medications used to treat dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease. 

   

Date Posted

08/29/2022

Overview

Objectives

  • Discuss consequences of environmental exposure to PFAS and infer how PFAS exposure may be associated with cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.
  • Describe medications used to treat atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (coronary artery disease), including their mechanism of actions.
  • Analyze blood work and an EKG to make a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Keywords

PFAS; environmental toxin; cardiovascular disease; dyslipidemia; toxicology; EKG; perfluoroalkyl; polyfluoroalkyl; coronary artery disease

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Epidemiology
Medicine (General)
Physiology
Toxicology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Graduate, Professional (degree program), Clinical education

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Interrupted, Discussion, Problem-based learning

 

 

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